Point of View

The entire novel is written in the first person past tense. The Introduction and Epilogue are written from the point of view of Maria, the once-estranged daughter of the central character. It's important to note that the Introduction and most of the Epilogue are written in such a way as to keep her identity secret. This point of view serves to create an intriguing sense of mystery, the sole purpose of which seems to be to make the ultimate revelation of Maria's identity, and more particularly her relationship with the central character, a moving and surprising conclusion. Meanwhile, the main body of the text is written from the autobiographical, self-revelatory point of view of Chick Benetto. It's presented essentially as a diary or journal, chronicling his thoughts and experiences and reflections as much as it does particular incidents - there is a real, engaging sense of...